Trademark Rules

A trademark is used in commerce to protect a product or service from being copied. This designation is identified by the TM or ® symbols.

Requirements

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office oversee trademarks and certain steps must be taken to apply for a trademark. You will need to renew your trademark every 10 years.

Principals

The application must include the owners name, address and email address. If it is a foreign company applying, the applicant must identify a principal in the United States.

Drawings

A rendering of the trademark must be included that shows the full color, along with color identifications that will be used. It is best to supply a digital rendering in a .jpeg format.

Samples

For products, include a sample of how the trademark will be used such as a container or display.

Images

If you are using images of people, you must identify those individuals and provide consent forms, or prove the person is no longer living and the image is free to use.

Disputes

There is an appeal process if your request is denied, however these are involved and you would be wise to contact an attorney should there be any disputes.

Fees

There are fees to process your application, currently below $500.

Resources

• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office